Endodontics

Endodontics in San Antonio, TX

Annually, millions of infected teeth are saved through endodontics, like root canal treatment. At Local Dental San Antonio, Drs. Joung and Minkyung Lee keep patients comfortable while preserving teeth through endodontic treatment.

What is endodontics?

Endodontic treatments focus on the soft inner tissues of the teeth, otherwise known as the pulp or nerve. When infection strikes the dental pulp, it can feel intense. So, our dentists aim to relieve discomfort and strengthen teeth by treating and protecting this delicate tissue inside the tooth.

Root Canal Therapy: Our Top Endodontic Treatment

What is a root canal? Root canal treatment is the ideal method of repairing and saving an infected tooth.

When do you need a root canal?

When the infection spreads throughout the tooth, our dentists come to treatment crossroads: root canal vs. extraction. Our team performs root canal therapy if the tooth root can be saved through endodontics. However, if the tooth is too far gone and cannot be saved, then tooth removal is necessary. Some typical signs that endodontic treatment is necessary include:

Persistent tooth pain
Discomfort when you eat or touch the infected tooth
Cracked or chipped tooth
Sensitivity to temperature
Swollen gums
Tooth discoloration (greyish-black appearance)
Tooth mobility

Treatment Expectations

For new patients, we strongly suggest filling out new patient forms and submitting insurance information for a more efficient first visit.

How long does a root canal take? On average, root canal therapy takes about 30 to 60 minutes. However, more prominent teeth with multiple roots (like molars in the back of the mouth) can take up to an hour and a half.

“Do root canals hurt?” is a top question for patients. There’s no need to worry about discomfort if your dentist suggests endodontics. It’s typically more uncomfortable for patients to continue living without endodontic treatment. Our Local Dental team offers local anesthesia to ensure that patients don’t feel discomfort throughout root canal therapy.

Furthermore, we’ve outlined what to expect before, during, and after each root canal procedure:

Before

First, our dentists must determine if the tissue inside the tooth is infected. Typically, they accomplish diagnosis via physical exams and x-rays. Once diagnosed, Dr. Lee can provide anesthesia and start endodontic treatment

During

Root canal therapy starts with removing the infected dental pulp and sealing the tooth to prevent reinfection. Then, our dentists strengthen the tooth with a dental crown.

After

Should you be worried if you feel root canal pain after treatment? One might feel mild pain for a few days during root canal recovery. However, if you feel root canal pain 72 hours after endodontic treatment, please contact our dental team. This can be a sign of a root canal infection.

Effectively Remove Infection and Preserve Teeth with Endodontics

If you’re suffering from intense tooth pain, don’t wait. Drs. Joung and Minkyung Lee can restore your smile and minimize discomfort with endodontics.

Take advantage of our online booking or conveniently call (210) 686-1486. The San Antonio community can trust the Local Dental team to keep individuals and families healthy, happy, and feeling at home.